Protests Erupt in Havana Amid Ongoing Power Outages
This week, residents in Havana’s Marianao district held peaceful protests against power outages, food shortages, and what they perceive as neglect from the communist regime. This occurred despite threats from “President” Miguel Diaz-Canel, according to Marti Noticias.
The Cuban Human Rights Observatory (OCDH) mentioned that September was particularly active for protests in Cuba, recording 1,121 confirmed protests—almost 100 more than the previous month. It seems that public dissatisfaction is growing.
OCDH also highlighted 323 incidents where protesters confronted police, with many engaging in actions such as banging pots, blocking streets, and having heated disputes with officers. Notably, 152 instances of repression by the regime were documented in September, a significant increase from August.
Residents expressed their frustration over relentless power outages and severe water shortages, leading to a surge in complaints about public services. The report indicates deteriorating security, with alarming increases in deaths and violence.
In central Havana, citizens took to the streets after enduring prolonged power cuts and dwindling water supply. They blocked roads, chanted phrases like “freedom,” and illuminated streetlights during the demonstrations.
Diaz-Canel responded to these protests by asserting that “no one has the authority to close public roads.” He also demanded that complaints be formally directed to designated locations, such as Communist Party offices. This was part of a response he made while participating in a clean-up campaign in Havana.
Many Cubans found Diaz-Canel’s threats to be “out of place” and viewed them as a means of controlling the population. For instance, Yanan Camaraza Medina shared her frustration about repeatedly seeking assistance from the government without any response, noting that proposed solutions do not work in practice.
Residents of Marianao continued to protest despite the regime’s threats, demanding “electricity, food, and freedom.” Witnesses claimed that Cuban police arrived and detained several people during the protests on Avenue 51.
One local expressed that the protests began after enduring over nine hours of power outages. It was suggested that the government restored power only after protesters began banging pots. Another resident detailed how the protests featured blockades and how police often intervened, adding to the overall tension.
Cubanet reported that authorities had not made any official comments regarding the protests or any possible arrests that took place. Additionally, the Miami-based Cuban Institute for Freedom of Expression and Press condemned the crackdown on protesters, calling it an affront to the values of free thought and expression.
